R Ashwin Critiques England's Double Standards During Fourth Test Match

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Ravichandran Ashwin criticised England's approach during the fourth Test, accusing them of double standards. The cricket community largely supported India's choice to let Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar achieve their centuries instead of accepting England's offer to end the match early on Sunday (July 27).

The incident unfolded when Ben Stokes, the England captain, proposed a handshake with Indian batters, acknowledging that a decisive result was unlikely.

Jadeja and Washington, who were batting on 89 and 80 respectively, declined the offer, leaving Stokes frustrated. Stokes later explained that he wanted to avoid overworking his tired bowlers. Ashwin expressed his disapproval on his YouTube channel, questioning why India should agree to leave when their players were close to reaching personal milestones.

India's Decision Supported by Cricket Fraternity

India eventually declared the match a draw after both Jadeja and Washington reached their centuries. It marked Washington's first Test century. Ashwin and Sunil Gavaskar both stated they would have continued batting for the mandated 15 overs if they were in charge. Gavaskar shared this view on Sony Sports, emphasising the importance of keeping the team on the field.

As England players surrounded Jadeja, Stokes sarcastically remarked about achieving a Test hundred against part-time bowler Harry Brook. Ashwin responded by saying that it was England's decision to bring Brook into play, not India's. He stressed that Test runs are earned and both players deserved their centuries.

Criticism of England's Sportsmanship

Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin criticised England's sportsmanship during the final day. He praised India for their determination and highlighted how England wanted to stop playing once they realised they couldn't win. Haddin commended India for exercising their right to continue batting and achieving their goals.

Alastair Cook, former England captain, also supported India's decision. He suggested that continuing to bat would provide momentum for India heading into the fifth Test at The Oval. Cook acknowledged England's frustration after being in the field for 140 overs but understood India's reasoning.

Reactions from Former Captains

Nasser Hussain, another former captain, described Stokes' decision to bowl Harry Brook after the handshake as unnecessary. Hussain noted that while England seemed upset due to fatigue, India had every right to pursue their centuries. He believed too much was made of the situation and credited India for their performance.

The incident highlighted differing perspectives on sportsmanship and strategy in cricket. While some viewed England's actions as unsportsmanlike, others saw India's decision as justified given the circumstances. The debate underscored the complexities of cricketing decisions and their impact on players' achievements.

With inputs from PTI